The NRL has finally sold the struggling Newcastle Knights in a multi-million dollar deal finalised this afternoon.
The Daily Telegraph understands the purchasers — the thriving Wests Leagues club group which made a $23 million profit last year — will commit up to $10 million to new centre of excellence and a cash injection into grassroots football in the Hunter as part of the agreement.
Newcastle are staring down the barrel of their third wooden spoon.
The Daily Telegraph understands the new buyers will support coach Nathan Brown, CEO Matt Gidley and their long-term strategy for sustained success.
The sale was predicted in The Daily Telegraph two weeks ago.
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Wests Group is a flourishing business with a $143 million turnover that makes regular multi-million dollar profits with assets including six thriving licensed clubs and two accommodation hotels.
The club’s last owner, Nathan Tinkler, was a disaster.
Earlier this year with potential buyers reluctant to come to the table, even a relocation to Ipswich was one of the options considered.
“We wanted to hold out for the right buyer for the club and for the game,” an NRL source said.
“And we all want the Knights to be owned locally so there is community ownership of the club.”
The NRL will now concentrate on selling the Gold Coast Titans before the end of the season.